How to Help Someone with Dementia – 7 Steps for Successful Caregiving
Dementia is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
If you’ve ever cared for someone with dementia, you know it can be both rewarding and challenging. It’s a journey that requires patience, understanding, and a whole lot of love 🩷 I have found that there are some specific way to help someone with dementia, 7 of which i am going to review here.Â
These steps aren’t just based on research or theory; they come from my own experiences caring for individuals with dementia.Â
Dementia can affect every aspect of a person’s life, from their memory to their ability to communicate and even their personality. But with the right approach, we can help our loved ones live more comfortably and maintain their dignity.
Whether you’re a family caregiver, a professional caregiver, or just someone who wants to learn more about supporting those with dementia, I believe these steps will offer you practical guidance and hope 💗
How To Help Someone with Dementia...read on to find out!
1. Communicate Clearly
Communication is not just about talking; it’s about connecting on a deeper level. People with dementia often struggle to express themselves verbally, so we need to find other ways to understand their needs and emotions as well as ways to communicate our directions and advice.Â
When we communicate effectively, we can reduce frustration and anxiety for both the person with dementia and ourselves. It’s about being patient, listening with our hearts, and being present in the moment.
The impact that dementia has on communication varies between individuals but generally deteriorates as the disease progresses. Caregivers must be flexible and adjust their communication techniques based on the needs of the person.
When communicating verbally, it is important to use simple language and provide clear instructions. A person with dementia may have difficulty processing complex information, so keeping things straightforward can help them feel more at ease. This is why it is also important to allow them time to respond to our words and instructions, they may need 20-30 seconds to react to instructions due to slowed information processing in the brain.
For example, when getting ready to go our in cold weather you could say: “Let’s put on your coat, lift your arm,” and allow them some time to respond to your instructions.Â
Non-verbal communication, such as facial expressions and body language, plays a significant role in communicating, and becomes more important as the disease progresses. A gentle touch, soft facial expressions, or a reassuring smile can convey more than words ever could.Â
By focusing on effective communication, we can create a more supportive and compassionate environment for those with dementia. It’s not always easy, but the connections we build through communication can be incredibly meaningful and rewarding.
2. Provide Engagement through Activities
Engaging someone with dementia in activities is incredibly important for their well-being and quality of life. Activities can help maintain cognitive function, reduce feelings of isolation, and enhance their overall mood and quality of life.Â
When planning activities, it’s essential to consider the person’s interests, abilities, and stage of dementia. Activities should be meaningful and enjoyable, focusing on the person’s strengths rather than their limitations. For example, a person who enjoys painting may enjoy painting with a brush on a canvas during the early stages of illness however may respond better to crayons and a coloring book once the disease reaches later stages.
Regular physical activity can also have significant benefits for those with dementia. Exercise can improve mobility, balance, and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing overall health. Regular walks outside provide the opportunity for not only exercise but also fresh air and nature. In the early stages walks alone may still be possible however a walking partner is likely safer later in the disease process.Â
Activities also provide opportunities for social interaction, which is crucial for emotional health. Whether it’s a simple game, a craft project, or a music session, engaging with others can bring joy and a sense of belonging.
Overall, activities and engagement play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for those living with dementia. They provide stimulation, social connection, and a sense of purpose, contributing to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
2. Create a comfortable environment
A vital step in the journey to discover how to help someone with dementia is this one. When in an uncomfortable environment, individuals will feel stressed, confused, disoriented, scared, and unhappy. This is not different than you or I would feel when in an environment that we are not comfortable in, right?Â
So, how do we ensure that the environment is comfortable? Here are some tips to consider:
- Remove unnecessary clutter and distractions: A cluttered or chaotic environment can be overwhelming for a person with dementia. Removing unnecessary items and simplifying the space can help reduce confusion and improve focus.
- Ensure adequate lighting: Poor lighting can make it difficult for a person with dementia to see and navigate their surroundings. Make sure the room is well-lit, and use natural light as much as possible.
- Create a familiar and safe space: Familiar objects, photographs, and other personal items can help the person with dementia feel more comfortable and at home. Make sure the space is also safe and secure, and remove any potential hazards.
- Use colors and textures: Colors and textures can help stimulate the senses and create a calming atmosphere. Soft, comfortable furnishings and soothing colors can help create a relaxing environment.
- Incorporate meaningful activities: Meaningful activities, such as art or music, can help stimulate the person’s cognitive and social skills and promote a sense of purpose.
- Maintain a consistent routine: A consistent routine can help provide structure and predictability for the person with dementia. Stick to a regular schedule for meals, activities, and rest periods.
3. Create a safe environment
Keeping a person with dementia safe is an essential part of caregiving. Dementia can cause confusion, disorientation, and memory loss, making it challenging for the person to navigate their surroundings safely. We’ve all heard stories of loved ones going missing after wandering outside and not returning home, how terrifying! Here are some tips to help prevent safety issues from happening:
- Secure the home: Ensure that the home is safe and secure, with working smoke detectors and appropriate locks on doors and windows. Consider using a monitoring system to keep track of the person’s movements.
- Remove hazards: Remove any potential hazards in the home, such as loose rugs or cluttered walkways. Install handrails and grab bars in the bathroom and shower to prevent falls.
- Provide supervision: Provide supervision for the person, especially when they are performing activities that may be hazardous, such as cooking or using appliances.
- Ensure medication safety: Keep medications in a secure location, and ensure that the person takes the correct medication at the right time. Consider using a pill organizer to help with medication management.
- Consider GPS tracking: In some cases it may be a good idea to consider using GPS tracking devices or wearable technology to keep track of the person’s location and provide peace of mind.
4. Be Patient
Patience is a critical aspect of caregiving for someone with dementia. As the disease progresses, communication can become increasingly difficult, and your loved one may become frustrated or agitated. You too may find yourself becoming frustrated and angry.
Maintaining a gentle approach and demeaner will help solidify the trusting relationship you have and also promote calmness. Always remember that your non-verbal behavior can be more telling than your words so ensuring your are demonstrating calmness will go along way in minimizing distress and agitation for those with dementia. Â
The person with dementia is not giving you a hard time...they are having a hard time.
When you are having feelings of frustration, also remember to take care of yourself. Have a nice bath, go for a walk, head to the movies, or take some extra time to rest. You are not able to care for anyone if you yourself are unwell.
5. Create a routine
Having a regular routine is incredibly important for those living with dementia. Routines provide a sense of structure, predictability, and security, which can help reduce feelings of confusion and anxiety.Â
For someone with dementia, changes in routine can be particularly challenging. A regular schedule can help them feel more in control of their day and can reduce the risk of agitation or behavioral issues. A routine also helps with daily activities such as meals, medication, and personal care. It can make these tasks more manageable and can help ensure that they are completed safely and consistently.Â
A regular routine can also help caregivers manage their own personal lives as they can plan their personal needs around the caregiving requirements.
Overall, having a regular routine can greatly improve the quality of life for those living with dementia. It provides comfort, stability, and a sense of normalcy in a world that can often feel confusing and overwhelming.
6. Simplify tasks
Tasks that may seem simple to you can be overwhelming for someone with dementia. Try to simplify tasks and break them down into smaller steps. It can help your loved one feel less overwhelmed and more successful. Most of us don’t realize just how complex simple daily activities can be.
For example, when I want to brush my teeth I carry out the activity without really thinking about all of the steps involved, it feels easy to our brains. However, a brain with dementia has trouble putting all of the requires steps together. In order to brush our teeth, we must first get out toothbrush and in order to do this we must know where it is. Once we find it we must pick it up. We also need to know where the toothpaste is, find it, and pick it up too. Then, we have to get the toothpaste onto the toothbrush. To do this we must open the toothpaste cap, turn the tube upside down, hold it over the toothbrush bristles, and then squeeze. We then need to stop squeezing….you get the point. There are multiple things that need to be done in order to brush our teeth.
Remember that simplifying tasks is not about taking away a person’s independence or treating them like a child. It’s about helping them feel successful and confident while carrying out tasks. With patience and a little creativity, you can find ways to simplify tasks and make the caregiving experience more positive for both of you.
7. Laugh
My favorite step in this list on how to help someone with dementia is this one! Laughter is the best medicine, finding moments of humor can help reduce stress and improve mood. Whether its a favorite funny movie, song, or dance, enjoy the moments you have together!
It is also important to note that laughter can stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function. It can also trigger the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, promoting a sense of happiness and contentment 😆
Overall, incorporating laughter and humor into dementia care can improve the emotional, social, and cognitive well-being of individuals living with the condition, making each day a little brighter and more enjoyable.
Do you have any other tips on how to help someone with dementia? Share them in the comments below!
You can learn more about what dementia is here.
Learn more about some dementia safe activity ideas here.
